Valheim Ashlands Server Update Guide
Ashlands is a major biome update that changes combat, progression, and world generation. Use this checklist to update a dedicated server safely, protect saves, and keep your player community in sync.
Key Rule: Backup your world files before updating. Once the Ashlands update touches a save, rolling back is painful.
Update Checklist
| Action | Why It Matters | Quick Tip |
|---|---|---|
Backup .db and .fwl files |
Protects your world from corruption or rollback needs | Copy the entire world save folder |
| Update the server build | Ashlands requires the latest server binaries | Update via panel or SteamCMD |
| Pause or disable mods | Many mods break on major updates | Re-enable only after compatibility checks |
| Communicate downtime | Players need to update clients too | Announce in Discord or server MOTD |
Step 1: Backup Your World
Valheim saves are stored as .db and .fwl files. Download and store a copy before updating. This lets you recover if the update introduces save corruption or mod conflicts.
Step 2: Update the Dedicated Server
On self-hosted servers, run SteamCMD updates:
steamcmd +login anonymous +force_install_dir /opt/valheim +app_update 896660 validate +quitHosted panels usually have an Update button or auto-update toggle. Verify the server version after update.
Step 3: Plan Ashlands World Generation
- Existing worlds: Ashlands generates in the far south. Avoid exploring that region before updating.
- Fresh start: Consider a new world if you want guaranteed Ashlands progression with no legacy terrain.
- Staged rollout: Keep a backup copy if you need to roll back for a short time.
Step 4: Validate Mods and Config
If you use BepInEx or other mods, disable them during the first boot. Re-enable only after verifying Ashlands compatibility.
- Check your mod installation guide for clean enable/disable steps.
- Review crossplay settings in server configuration.
Step 5: Launch and Monitor
Start the server, watch logs, and let a small test group join first. Confirm that Ashlands regions generate properly before opening the server to everyone.
Common Issues
World loads but Ashlands is empty
Ensure the far south was not explored before updating. You may need a fresh world for full biome generation.
Players crash on join
Disable mods and let players update clients. Re-enable mods after confirming compatibility.
Server not visible
Double-check port forwarding and crossplay settings. See our troubleshooting guide for quick fixes.
Related Guides
Need a stable update window? Host your Valheim server with Supercraft for fast patch rollouts and automatic backups.